Complex emotion surges through him with the force of a tidal wave, sorrow and pride and love all threatening together to overwhelm him completely.

He blinks back the sudden tears that threaten -- ridiculous, after everything, to find himself on the verge of such a collapse now -- and manages first a single shaking breath, then a nod.

"I know, River." Gabriel's voice is rough, but there's certainty in it.

"It's okay."